Burna Boy, calls Fela Kuti “the king,” saying the Afrobeat pioneer is the only African musician greater than him during a live stream.
Grammy Award-Winning Nigerian artist, Burna Boy has declared that the late Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti is the only African musician greater than him — a bold statement that has reignited conversations about musical legacy and influence across the continent.
The “Last Last” crooner made the comment during a recent live stream with Australian content creator and streamer PlayboyMax, where he described Fela as “the king” of African music.
“He [Fela Kuti] is the king. He is the only one [African artist] who is greater than me. He is the only one,” Burna Boy said confidently, drawing cheers and laughter from viewers who tuned in for the interactive session.
Fela Kuti, widely regarded as the pioneer of Afrobeat, remains one of Africa’s most influential cultural figures. His music — a blend of jazz, funk, and traditional Yoruba rhythms — inspired generations of African musicians, including Burna Boy, whose sound often draws from the same political and social consciousness that defined Fela’s era.
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Burna Boy’s assertion has since sparked vibrant debate on social media, with fans across Africa and the diaspora weighing in on how his global achievements compare to Fela’s enduring influence. Some hailed his confidence and success, while others argued that several other artists — past and present — also deserve recognition in discussions about Africa’s greatest musicians.
Beyond the headline-making moment, Burna Boy also opened up about the origins of his famous stage name during a separate conversation with tennis legend Roger Federer. The artist revealed that “Burna Boy” was inspired by his childhood fascination with comic books and superheroes.
“I used to draw superheroes and even made up my own characters,” he said. “One of them had fire powers, so I called myself Burna Boy. It stuck with me ever since.”
The Nigerian star, whose real name is Damini Ogulu, has consistently credited Fela Kuti as a major influence on his music and worldview. From his energetic stage performances to his politically charged lyrics, Burna Boy’s artistry often echoes Fela’s fearless spirit and cultural pride.
As one of Africa’s most globally recognized musicians, Burna Boy continues to push boundaries — blending genres, challenging conventions, and, in his own words, standing just beneath the man he calls “the king.”